51 31 021 Removing and installing / replacing rubber frame for windscreen (top)

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove both gutter strips on windscreen

IMPORTANT: Rubber frame (1) features an aluminum section inlay (2).
If necessary, detach adhesive tape (9) between rubber frame (1) and roof outer skin.
If necessary, remove fitted spacer buffers (8).
Carefully unwind rubber frame (1) (windscreen breakage).

Fig 1: Removing Rubber Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Tear-off lip (5) may be stuck to adhesive (4).
When rubber frame (1) is removed, tear-off lip (5) can tear off and remain in vehicle.

3 Windscreen
6 Bridge
7 Pinched butyl

Replacement of rubber frame without windscreen removal:

There is no sealing lip (2) in area (A) on left/right.

Detach tear-off lip (4) from rubber frame (1).

If adhesive leaks over tear-off lip (4), this area must be cut out partially.

To facilitate installation, coat rubber frame (1) and body cutout with water.

Fig 2: Identifying Tear-Off Lip, Rubber Frame And Adhesive Tape

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Install rubber frame (1).

If necessary, pull liner off adhesive tape (6) and press rubber frame (1) down firmly on roof outer skin.

3 Butylene tape
5 Aluminum strip

Liner is the protective film on adhesive tape (6).

Replacement of rubber frame with removed or new windscreen:

There is no sealing lip (2) in area (A) on left/right.

Fit rubber frame (1) with tear-off lip (4).

After installing windscreen: If necessary, pull liner off adhesive tape (6) and press rubber frame (1) down firmly on roof outer skin.

3 Butylene tape
5 Aluminum strip

Liner is the protective film on adhesive tape (6).

Fig 3: Identifying Adhesive Tape And Rubber Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.